Kristaps Porzingis Injury Update: Uncertainty Surrounds Celtics Star's Game 3 Availability
Boston Celtics big man Kristaps Porzingis may be heading back to the sidelines after a significant injury scare during the NBA Finals. Porzingis suffered a "torn medial retinaculum, allowing dislocation of the posterior tibialis tendon" in his left leg. As a result, his status is considered "day-to-day," casting doubt on his availability for Game 3 on Wednesday night.
The Injury Details
This new issue is unrelated to the calf strain that kept Porzingis out for over a month during the Eastern Conference playoffs. The medial retinaculum is connective tissue that serves as the roof of the tarsal tunnel, similar to the carpal tunnel in the foot. It anchors multiple structures in place, including the tendon of the posterior tibialis. If the retinaculum is torn, the tendon can shift out of place (dislocate), causing pain and instability in the ankle and foot.
A 2006 study indicated there have only been 32 documented cases of a dislocation of the posterior tibialis tendon, the worst-case outcome, in the English language. Evan Jeffries created a helpful graphic to show where the medial retinaculum and posterior tibialis tendon are located.
Porzingis' Current Condition
Porzingis had a wrap and/or brace on his left ankle while speaking to reporters on Tuesday. He appeared to be moving freely but walking around is much different than playing in a high-stakes NBA Finals game. If it were up to Porzingis, he would play. However, the team isn't going to let him take any unnecessary risks and will leave the decision up to the medical team.
"I'm going to do everything I can to be out there tomorrow," said Porzingis. However, the team recognizes the importance of his health and has taken the decision to play out of his hands, thoroughly vetting any choice with their medical professionals.
Impact on the Celtics
Porzingis' uncertain status raises questions about how his absence would affect the Celtics. The team went 9-1 without him earlier in the playoffs. However, his return in Games 1 and 2 of the Finals provided a massive boost to the team. Porzingis scored 32 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, and blocked five shots on 12-of-20 shooting in just 43 minutes of play. The Celtics were plus-25 with him on the floor during those games.
Porzingis offers a versatile skill set that allows him to space the floor or exploit mismatches if guarded by a smaller player. On the defensive end, he's been a formidable presence, providing massive rejections and altering numerous other attempts. He remains the team's only true rim protector, and his absence would put more pressure on Al Horford while forcing the Celtics into some interesting lineup decisions.
Potential Lineup Adjustments
If Porzingis is unable to play, the team could give backup big minutes to non-shooting threats like Luke Kornet or Xavier Tillman, allowing the Mavericks' big men to stay near the basket. Alternatively, they might opt for a small-ball lineup with Jayson Tatum or Oshae Brissett at the five. Neither option is ideal, but the Celtics still have the upper hand in this series with their 2-0 lead.
The Bigger Picture
This unforeseen complication adds another layer of intrigue to what has already been an electrifying NBA Finals. It's worth considering how the Celtics will have to reconsider their strategy and player rotations moving forward. The team values Porzingis' contributions immensely and will ensure any decision regarding his participation is thoroughly vetted by the medical team.
Whether Porzingis can defy the odds and step onto the court for Game 3 remains to be seen, making this matchup even more interesting. The Celtics' strategy and potential roster adjustments are key components to watch as the series progresses.